DAY 1
Sessin One - Introduction
The course is introduced by the facilitator who emphasises the need for individuals to be prepared to alter their behaviours and to support each other in identifying key development areas.
The session introduces:
- Course objectives
- Course outline
- Domestics
- Individuals and their expectations
- How people learn and thus change their behaviour
Session Two - First Impressions
Participants explore the notion of first impressions – How and why are they formed? How important are they? Can we manage the first impression that we give to others? Should we challenge the first impression that we create of another person? Participants then consider what their first impressions are of other people in the training room.
Session Three - The Communication Skills Toolbox
Participants experience the problems of effective communication and become more aware of how to achieve clarity and impact when communicating.
- The communication process
- Interference in communication
- Verbal communication skills
- Active and accurate listening skills
- Questioning skills
- Developing rapport
- Creating impact
Session Four - Understanding Assertiveness
Participants learn what being assertive really means and why people often behave differently to this. They build their understanding of the difference between assertive, passive and aggressive behaviour and begin to develop their ability to maintain an assertive approach. In particular we explore:
- Defining assertiveness, passivity and aggression
- Examining instinctive behaviour
- Assertive body language
- An assertiveness model
- Saying No!
- Assertive language
- Levels of assertion
- Benefits of assertive behaviour
Day 2
Session Five - Assertive Feedback Skills
When communicating, it is most important that we can give and receive feedback effectively, in order to promote self-development. During the session participants examine:
- Assertiveness and feedback
- Giving feedback appropriately
- Being receptive when receiving feedback from others
- Deciding what to do after having received feedback
The session concludes with participants utilising the learning points from the session by engaging in a sensitive and supportive feedback discussion with a partner, on the work carried out earlier in the course on First Impressions.
Session Six - Maintaining an Assertive Communication Style
This session outlines techniques that we can employ to maintain an assertive style when communicating with others. Areas covered during this session include:
- Self-esteem
- Anxieties and beliefs
- Assertive role models
- Assertive rights
- Maintaining a positive attitude
Session Seven - Assertive Communication Skills Practice
In order to truly understand the learning acquired thus far, it is imperative that participants have experience of using assertive communication skills. During this
session they combine their communication skills with their understanding of assertiveness by engaging in role play scenarios and group discussions. The core aim of the session is for participants to overcome specific problems and difficulties related to assertive communication that they face in their individual workplaces.
Session Eight - Transactional Analysis
Participants are introduced to Transactional Analysis, a theory that enables us to analyse interactions that take place between people. An initial understanding of this theory will encourage participants to question how they communicate with others and assess whether their approach is appropriate. An understanding of the theory will facilitate reflection upon any necessary behavioural changes required to maintain an assertive communication style and influence others positively.
Session Nine - Behaviour and Assertiveness in Groups
Participants take part in an exercise in which they have the opportunity to review their behaviours and transactions within a group situation. Following the exercise participants are encouraged to review their contributions, levels of assertion displayed and how any conflict was resolved.
Session Ten - Review, Action Plan and Close
Participants review what they have learnt during the two days of the course and examine their learning against their initial expectations and behavioural mindsets. They conclude by creating an Action Plan that prepares them for using their newly acquired knowledge and skills within the work environment.
